Hasta La Ideas

People who love gadgets, love magnets and connecting things. Here’s two magnetic connection systems that easily blew past $100,000 on Kickstarter.

The first is this Swift-Lock camera carrying mount, targeting photographers. Its intelligent design places the straps at the base of your SLR, rather than on the sides. This arrangement prevents the camera from bouncing around on your body while hanging from the straps in transit.

The second is this more general Magno-Link system, which targets the EDC crowd. Offered in aluminum or titanium, it features embedded magnets and a spring latch, and is for attaching…you know, EDC stuff.

The former was designed by German company Spinn Design, whose photographer’s tool we looked at here. The latter is by a Turkish EDC company Retvon. They’re going for $64 and $24 a pop, respectively.

Reading is already a difficult task for people with visual impairments, but it’s especially challenging when it comes to material that involves a lot of visual elements. Adults might have not much of a problem visualizing those words in their minds, but children who are still developing their mental libraries will probably have a harder time. Fairy tales and fictional books with fantasy elements are examples of these highly visual materials, and simply hearing the narration or feeling the words through Braille feels rather insufficient to capture the emotions and magic of the stories. This electronic book concept tries to offer an equally magical experience that makes the objects and scenes pop out from the book, almost literally.

Designers: Subin Kim, Yujeong Shin, Seungyeon Lee

It’s pretty amazing how blind and visually impaired people can read a book while sliding their hands across seemingly random dots, almost like magic. But the text on a page doesn’t exactly show the images associated with the words, relying on your imagination to conjure up those associations mentally. Of course, that comes almost like second nature for those with normal eyesight, but the visually impaired, especially younger ones, need a bigger boost to help match words with shapes and objects.

bbook is a concept for an electronic 3D book that provides all the necessary tools for a child with visual impairments to not only make sense of but also enjoy such fantastical books. It has an audio component that reads the book out loud, with large tactile buttons that let the reader skip forward or backward as desired. There’s also a dynamic Braille “page” where dots rise and sink as the words change.

The most interesting part of the book, however, is the fabric-like material on the opposite page. This soft material would also rise to create bumps but not as words in Braille but as actual three-dimensional objects related to the story being told. It could be Snow White’s apple, Cinderella’s glass slipper, or the wolf in Little Red Riding Hood. In addition to the educational value of this feature, it also helps make the story feel even more magical.

Every part of the 3D book was designed so that a visually impaired individual could use it without assistance. Even the charging indicators are elevating dots rather than LEDs so they can feel how much more time it needs. bbook also has a rather interesting feature where each individual story is inserted into the device like a USB stick, making each tale a memorable and magical experience.

The post Electronic 3D book concept helps visually impaired kids feel the magic of fairy tales first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Spring is here, and it really is the perfect time for camping! And, I truly love camping trips. Relaxing amid nature, in a sweet bubble of my own, away from the hectic city life – sounds like heaven to me! However, one thing that always worries me before any camping getaway is the meals! I’m a food lover through and through, and having warm and freshly prepared (and tasty) meals at all times is a must for me. A good meal isn’t always guaranteed though when you’re getting down and dirty in the outdoors, but we can always try our best! Hence, we’ve curated a collection of portable and functional kitchen appliances that will help you prepare delicious meals even when you’re surrounded by nothing but the wilderness

1. All-in-One Grill

Dubbed the All-in-One Grill, this is the perfect grill for your outdoor camping adventures! It is designed to facilitate all kinds of cooking – from frying to smoking, stewing, grilling, or simply keeping some wine warm. It doesn’t occupy too much space and does an excellent job in a tiny amount of space, and different environments.

Click Here to Buy Now: $449

Why is it noteworthy?

This innovative grill is designed by a small family-owned factory, and it smartly maximizes the limited amount of space available. It features a wooden base, which protects the table or surface from the grill’s hot bottom, while also doubling up as a lid when the griller needs to be kept away.

What we like

• Facilitates seven different ways of cooking
• Simplifies the cumbersome task of outdoor cooking

What we dislike

• The simple portable design may not be preferred by hardcore grillers

2. 8-in-1 EDC Scissors

This 8-in-1 EDC Scissor is the ultimate sidekick for your indoor and outdoor culinary adventures! You can simply pull the scissors apart to form a set of knives. The scissors also feature a nutcracker, can opener, built-in bottle opener, and fire starter, forming a handy and nifty package.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59

Why is it noteworthy?

The scissor is an innovative design amped with two knives, as well as a large variety of multitools for whenever you need them. Once you put the scissors back together, they can cut through cured meats, and the serrated mid-section can be utilized to crack walnuts as well!

What we like

• Excellent for both the kitchen and outdoor cooking sessions
• Smart practical tool equipped with loads of cool features

What we dislike

• It isn’t the kind of scissor you can simply carry in your pocket

3. Ember

Dubbed Ember, this conceptual portable oven has a monolithic design with a sleek build that can be utilized on the stove’s flame without any electricity. It is a space-saving kitchen appliance that isn’t only a great fit for your kitchen but for your camping adventures as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is a clever solution designed to facilitate baking in smaller kitchens or outdoor spaces. It can bake healthy food in small spaces faster as compared to conventional methods. It is quite easy to use as well, simply place it on the stove, fill the container, and close the glass lid!

What we like

• Well-suited for outdoor spaces and small kitchens

What we dislike

• It is a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

4. Compact Modular Grill Plate

Meet the Compact Modular Grill Plate! It is designed to prepare perfectly cooked steak or food for you with the help of heat conduction, place thickness, and heat uniformity. The looks of the product can be deceiving, but once you literally get inside the plate you can understand how the real magic of it works.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89

Why is it noteworthy?

It uses a three-layer architecture with two steel layers covering aluminum. The lower Stainless Steel SUS439 allows the grill to be used on an induction stove, while the upper Stainless Steel SUS304 has some excellent corrosion resistance, forming a portable appliance that is durable and handy.

What we like

• Lightweight and compact design to save up on space and efforts
• Crafted by experts from Tsubamesanjo in Japan

What we dislike

• Can’t accommodate large portions

5. Sustainable Cutlery Set

Dubbed the Sustainable Cutlery Set, this guilt-free and sustainable cutlery set is made using Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymers or GFRP. The cutlery is light and durable and presented in recyclable and reusable packaging. It can last a long time, so you don’t need to worry about the longevity of the set.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutlery set has plenty of mechanical strength, so the fork and knife won’t break if you’re slicing through a well-done steak. The different elements of the set can be split in half, which makes them portable and easy to carry around. The various parents can be screwed and unscrewed.

What we like

• Sustainable but also designed to last
• Portable design that you can carry around with you for ease

What we dislike

• The handles are delicate and may be too thin for large hands, making them difficult to use

6. Playful Palm Grater

This charming little product is called the Playful Palm Grater, and it can add some functional fun to your kitchen space, or even when you’re out camping! The tiny product will grate fresh garnishes directly onto your food on the dining table, adding a refined touch to your meals even when you’re not home.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The playful product curls up like a piece of paper and is made from a single piece of aluminum alloy plate. It is available in a bunch of fun colors, so you can pick the one that perfectly complements your taste.

What we like

• Unique and clean form with a firm grip
• Transforms grating into a smooth and fun activity

What we dislike

• Although the grater’s size is fun and small, it limits it from grating larger amounts of food

7. Portable Fire Pit Stand

Meet the Portable Fire Pit Stand – a unique fire pit stand with a puzzle-like assembly, that makes it truly stand apart from traditional fire pits. This portable fire pit doesn’t only provide warmth, but it also functions as a cooking station on your camping trips or winter gatherings in your backyard.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119

Why is it noteworthy?

The Portable Fire Pit Stand is made from special sheet metal technology, and it prevents any kind of warping or distortion from heat, which offers safety and ensures longevity. The stand’s compact size and easy assembly style make it great for outdoor settings, including camping trips.

What we like

• Features a unique puzzle-like design that facilitates quick setup
• Industrial look with sleek aesthetics

What we dislike

• Not the best for cooking up meals for large groups as it has a compact size

8. Shelf

Named Shelf, this grill features the design language of DHL and was created by PDF Haus. It features a simple box silhouette with a freewheeling attitude, and perfectly captures the color scheme, finishes, and materials as seen in DHL’s brand aesthetic and vehicles. It even features DHL decals and tags!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Shelf is shaped like a slim briefcase, and you can easily carry it with you. It features two metal clasps that can be opened and slid out to showcase the Shelf’s grill and supplementary table space. It includes two retractable shelves which create more space to place spices, utensils, and tools.

What we like

• Features a unique briefcase form
• Innovative DHL-inspired aesthetics

What we dislike

• Propane gas containers are inserted into the grill’s underside giving it more weight

9. Campo

Named Campo, this outdoor kitchen appliance is inspired by the curves of an Apple Watch and a portable EV battery. The appliance is made using nature-friendly colors. It features a helmet-like design, with a visor that can be rolled up with a handle. It has a magnetically fastened plate, on which you can keep the item you want to cook, and set a timer.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Campo microwave oven is equipped with a rechargeable battery that facilitates heating and cooking without requiring continuous juice from your car. You can carry the microwave like a helmet, and place it on any flat surface to begin easy prep of your meal.

What we like

• Portable and easy-to-carry design
• Amped by a rechargeable battery

What we dislike

• It’s still a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

10. Fire Safe

Called the Fire Safe, this envelop-sized, portable fire and cooking companion is designed by Wolf & Grizzly. It lets you start up your own warm and cozy fire wherever it is safe to do so. The Fire Safe is great for fostering communal fires and facilitating cooking experiences with family and friends.

Why is it noteworthy?

It builds campfire and cooking experiences which reduce the environmental footprints created by most typical campfires. It features a hinged collapsible design that has a large fuel capacity.

What we like

• Lightweight and slim design
• Portable design that is easy to carry around

What we dislike

• Made from stainless steel, which enables a patina to form over time, which may not be liked by all users

The post 10 Best Outdoor Kitchen Appliances For Seamless Cooking On Your Camping Trips This Spring first appeared on Yanko Design.

In this week’s comments update, readers are discussing Heatherwick Studio’s design for its first building in South America, which was informed by indigenous weaving practices.

Renderings of the seven-storey building planned for Bogotá in Colombia show a facade made of a series of colourful, undulating columns.

Several readers were shocked by the cultural reference points the studio cited.

“A crazy bit of architecture”

“This is beyond silly – it is a cultural misappropriation of the very lowest, even most offensive sort,” scorned The Truth in a comment that was upvoted 10 times.

“Would Heatherwick design a green building in the shape of a shamrock for an Irish site?” they asked.

“This actually leaves me kind of speechless,” wrote Franc Lea, adding: “genuinely shocked, even! Like, how?? They should be embarrassed.”

Meanwhile, Supplicem wondered “why do Anglo architects always think design for Hispanic countries must be kitsch?”

However, on the other side of the argument, Z-dog called it “a crazy bit of architecture” before admitting “but I’d be happy to see it built.”

Carlos Gris also responded positively towards Heatherwick’s design, arguing that “Dezeen readers will probably get the daggers out, but this makes me happy.”

What are your thoughts on Heatherwick Studio’s design? Join the discussion ›

“Tech Art Nouveau – more please!”

Another story causing a stir in the comments section was the news that Pelli Clarke & Partners has completed Japan’s tallest skyscraper, the Mori JP Tower, as part of the Azabudai Hills development in Tokyo.

Felix Tannenbaum put forward “well, I think it’s very very lovely”. They went on to call it “understated, organic Tech Art Nouveau – more please!”

Commenter AM praised the skyscraper as “such an amazing project!” and thought it was “great to see such a great firm leave a meaningful, timeless impact on the Tokyo skyline!”

However, the project had as many detractors as admirers. “There is something about its proportions that just isn’t right,” mused Sharad Majumdar.

“It might be the tallest tower in Japan, but because it’s also one of the fattest, it actually looks rather dumpy and squat,” criticised Alfred Hitchcock. “Not elegant at all,” they concluded.

Do you think it rises to the occasion? Join the discussion ›

“Very bland and uninteresting” 

Another story that got readers talking this week was Foster + Partners renderings of an office tower to be built in Hollywood with a series of spiralling plant-covered terraces wrapped around its exterior.

“Looks delicious – yum!” wrote Design Junkie. However, it wasn’t to everyone’s tastes, with Jeff Daniel calling it “very bland and uninteresting”.

Others raised concerns about what the planting would look like in reality. “Sadly the green swirl in this Twister ice lolly will look nothing like the colourful abundance in these renders,” lamented Franc Lea.

The Truth agreed, writing “the high intensity of the plantings graphic colour scheme will never be achieved in reality”.

“Nowadays if you’re building an office that’s as unsustainable as ever, just make sure it looks like a big garden in the project design,” mocked commenter Felix.

Delicious or bland? Join the discussion ›

Comments update 

Dezeen is the world’s most commented architecture and design magazine, receiving thousands of comments each month from readers. Keep up to date on the latest discussions on our comments page and subscribe to our weekly Debate newsletter, where we feature the best reader comments from stories in the last seven days.

The post “A crazy bit of architecture” says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.